[Geysers] Shoshone

[jacross]

Shoshone Geyser Basin was visited during 25-27 July 2006.  In addition to
findings reported earlier:

1) Little Giant is so dormant that it remains perfectly placid at all times.
Some small sputs to the west and steam vents on the south rim of the crater
continue to be active.

2) Meander Geyser is active, but its intervals are more than a day long.  The
one observed eruption was preceded by an eruption of Trio Geyser.  Meander
looks completely dormant unless it is erupting.

3) Soap Kettle does not overflow at all, though it still cycles and sends a
few splashes over the rim.

4) Slosh Geyser is probably active.  It is hot, clear, and surrounded by
freshwash.  But it failed to wash markers during our trip.

5) There is an interesting geyser in the middle of the terrace in the South
Group above Flake Spring.  It has blown out several times over the years,
going back at least to the 1970's (this info from Rocco).  Intervals were just
under 2 hours.  Durations were about 15-20 minutes.  Maximum height is 4-6
feet.  It erupts in a series of surges.

6) Nearby, Outbreak Geyser is completely dead.  But on the dry flat above it,
a hole about 10 x 34 inches has broken out.  It opens into a large cavern.
Wash from a single, small eruption extends 25 feet downslope.  Conditions have
not changed from 3 weeks ago, when I first noticed it.

7) Diverted Geyser was active, with one interval of 14 minutes noted.
However, its activity is inconsistent, as no eruptions were seen the following
day.

8) Not Pectin Geyser is inactive.  It is drowned by a shift in the runoff
stream.

Jeff Cross
jacross at lamar.colostate.edu